Bullying is a major health issue and the side-effects are immediate and long-lasting. In the most tragic of cases, bullying has had fatal consequences. Children and adolescents who are involved in bullying (either as an aggressor, as a victim, or both) put themselves at risk for a number of emotional and behavioural problems, now and in the future, and require support to learn how to develop healthy relationships.
Dangers for Children and Adolescents Who Are Bullied:
- Depression (low mood, a sense of hopelessness)
- Social anxiety, loneliness, isolation
- Stress related health problems (e.g., headaches, stomach aches)
- Low self esteem
- School absenteeism and academic problems
- Aggressive behaviours
- Contemplating, attempting, or committing suicide
Dangers for Children and Adolescents Who Bully Others:
- Not knowing the difference between right and wrong
- Delinquency and substance use
- Academic problems and increased school drop out rate
- Aggression
- Sexual harassment and dating aggression
- Gang involvement and criminal adulthood
- Difficulties in their relationships with others
- Being bullied at the hands of others